Can a duodenal bulb ulcer lead to cancerous changes?

Duodenal bulb ulcers themselves do not directly cause cancerous changes, but there are associated risk factors. These ulcers are mainly caused by Helicobacter pylori infection and excessive gastric acid secretion, and are a type of peptic ulcer, accounting for approximately 95% of duodenal ulcers. Although the rate of malignant transformation of such ulcers themselves is relatively low, long-standing and recurrent ulcers may increase the risk of cancer. Additionally, Helicobacter pylori infection, one of the main causative factors of these ulcers, is closely linked to various gastric diseases including gastric cancer. Therefore, patients with duodenal bulb ulcers are advised to seek timely professional treatment and be tested for concurrent Helicobacter pylori infection to reduce potential cancer risks.